The classic secretary desk is a chameleon. Give it a job, style it for function and good looks, and it will organize, store and display in multiple ways. We picked a modern version of this trusty piece and, with a little styling magic, put it to work in three settings. 

After hours

In the living or dining room, a secretary desk serves as an ideal bar. Opt for accessories in woodsy colours with a bit of brass to add a splash of cocktail-lounge style. Store most of your liquor bottles in the closed storage below and reserve the shelves for eye-catching pieces. Organize the “desk” area, so when you lower the hinged panel to serve, guests get a big reveal.  

 

Photography, Bruno Petrozza

Crystal GLASSES, $51, set of 4; marble and brass BARWARE KIT, $108; West Elm, westelm.ca. Wood Coasters, $20, set of 4, Boutique Kozy, boutiquekozy.ca. Gold SHAKER, $35, Indigo, indigo.ca. Wood TRAY, $17; leather Notebook, $15; black and white Notebook, $8; HomeSense, homesense.ca. Tolix STOOL, $109, Prunelle, prunelle.ca. 

Hard at work 

Put function first, but don’t sacrifice style. A comfy ergonomic chair is essential; this one takes its style pedigree from the legendary Eames office chair. With all of the not-so-pretty work necessities hidden in the lower cabinet, you can style the shelves with specially chosen objects. Repeat shapes (the clock and decorative apple) and colours for design harmony.

 

Photography, Bruno Petrozza

Alpha OFFICE CHAIR, $517; decorative apple, $30; Mikaza, mikazahome.ca. CLOCK, $60, Boutique Kozy, boutiquekozy.ca. Marble-pattern NOTEBOOK, $20; MUG, $17; MOUSEPAD, $13; PENS, $17, set of 6; Indigo, indigo.ca. Mail STORAGE tray, $15, set of 2; IKEA, ikea.ca.

Vanity fair 

A dedicated space for your maquillage is luxurious. The secretary desk is a perfect pampering place. A lighted makeup mirror is a must. From there, take cues from your decor when choosing accessories. A tray for frequently used items is essential; larger bins in the closed section bring order to things like hairbrushes, appliances and bottles of lotions. A stool, similar to those in a salon, is the vanity’s ideal partner.

 

Photography, Bruno Petrozza

White SWIVEL STOOL, $548, Mikaza, mikazahome.ca. JEWELLERY BOX, $17; MAKeUP BRUSHES, $10, set of 3; gold VASE, $30; FRAME, $60, set of 2; pink BOX, $13; HomeSense, homesense.ca. White VASE, $20; bathroom Glass AND tray set, $22; Boutique Kozy, boutiquekozy.ca. Makeup MIRROR, $60, Amazon, amazon.ca.

► In all three rooms: Boss SECRETARY, $410, Nexera, nexeradistribution.com. FLOOR LAMP, $489, Mikaza, mikazahome.ca.